The body of Nathan Smith, the 27-year-old son of rapper and producer Lil Jon, was recovered from a pond near his home in Milton, Georgia, on February 6, 2026. Authorities confirmed the discovery after a three-day search following Smith's disappearance on February 3.
Smith, who performed under the stage name DJ Young Slade, was reported missing after he ran out of his residence early that morning without his phone. Police indicated he may have been disoriented at the time.
Lil Jon, whose real name is Jonathan Smith, released a statement expressing profound grief over the loss of his only son, describing him as an "amazingly talented young man" and the "kindest human being."
The Disappearance of Nathan Smith
Nathan Smith was last seen around 6 a.m. on February 3, 2026, near the intersection of Baldwin Drive and Mayfield Road in Milton, a suburb north of Atlanta.
According to the Milton Police Department, officers responded to a call from his home reporting that he had left abruptly and appeared disoriented. He did not take his phone or any personal items with him.
The search began immediately, involving local law enforcement and volunteers. Police issued public alerts describing Smith as 6 feet tall, weighing about 180 pounds, with long dreadlocks, last seen wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and black sweatpants.
The Search Efforts and Discovery
Search operations expanded over the following days, focusing on areas near Smith's residence in Milton. Divers from the Cherokee County Fire Department assisted in examining nearby bodies of water.
On February 6, 2026, at approximately 11:53 a.m., a body was recovered from a pond in Mayfield Park, close to where Smith lived. The Milton Police Department stated that the body was believed to be that of Nathan Smith, pending official identification by the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Authorities have indicated no evidence of foul play in Smith's death. The cause and manner of death will be determined following an autopsy by the medical examiner.
The police department expressed gratitude to multiple agencies involved in the search, including the Sandy Springs Police Department, Fulton County Sheriff’s Office, Haralson County Sheriff’s Office, Forsyth County Fire Department, Georgia K9 Team Search and Recovery, and various volunteers.
Family's Heartbroken Response
Lil Jon confirmed his son's death in a joint statement with Smith's mother, Nicole Smith, his ex-wife. "I am extremely heartbroken for the tragic loss of our son, Nathan Smith. His mother and I are devastated," the statement read.
The rapper praised his son extensively, calling him "the kindest human being you would ever meet. He was immensely caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate, and warmhearted—he loved his family and the friends in his life to the fullest." Lil Jon added that Nathan was "an amazingly talented young man" and that the family was "incredibly proud of him."
The statement also noted comfort in their final interactions: "We loved Nathan with all of our hearts... He was loved and appreciated, and in our last times together we’re comforted in knowing that we expressed that very sentiment to him."
Lil Jon shared the message on social media, where fans and celebrities offered condolences. The family has requested privacy during their time of grief.
Prior to his death, Nathan had spoken positively about his father in interviews. In a 2024 profile, he described Lil Jon as a supportive parent who encouraged his musical pursuits, saying the rapper was "always there" as a father figure despite his busy career.
Who Was Nathan Smith?
Nathan Murray Smith, born in 1998, was an up-and-coming music producer, artist, and engineer based in Atlanta. He performed under the moniker DJ Young Slade and was an NYU graduate.
Smith followed in his father's footsteps in the music industry. He collaborated with Lil Jon on several occasions, including a performance at the 97.1 AMP Radio's Amplify concert in Hollywood in March 2014.
His latest single, "Feels," was released in March 2025, showcasing his talents in production and performance. Smith was known for his work in hip-hop and electronic music, blending influences from his father's crunk era with contemporary styles.
Friends and colleagues described him as talented and kind-hearted, echoing his father's sentiments. As DJ Young Slade, he built a following in Atlanta's music scene, performing at local venues and releasing tracks independently.
Lil Jon's Career and Why This Matters
Lil Jon, born Jonathan Smith in 1971, rose to fame in the early 2000s as a pioneer of crunk music. He fronted the group Lil Jon & the East Side Boyz, producing hits like "Get Low" and "Salt Shaker."
His collaboration with Usher and Ludacris on "Yeah!" in 2004 became a global smash, earning a Grammy for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration. Later, he found renewed success with "Turn Down for What" alongside DJ Snake in 2013, which topped charts worldwide.
Beyond music, Lil Jon has ventured into television, appearing on shows like "Ridiculousness" and "Celebrity Apprentice." He has also been involved in philanthropy and politics, notably performing at the 2024 Democratic National Convention.
The death of his son resonates deeply within the music community, highlighting the personal tragedies that can affect public figures. Nathan's emerging career represented a new generation in hip-hop, and his loss underscores the fragility of life amid the pressures of the industry.
Fans have flooded social media with tributes, using hashtags like #RIPNathanSmith and #DJYoungSlade to share memories and support for Lil Jon. The incident has also drawn attention to mental health issues, though no specific details have been released regarding Smith's state prior to his disappearance.
What Happens Next
The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office will conduct an autopsy to determine the official cause of death. Results are expected in the coming weeks, though they may take longer depending on toxicology reports.
Police have stated the investigation remains active, but with no suspicion of foul play, it is likely to conclude once the medical findings are in.
The family has not announced funeral arrangements, prioritizing privacy. Lil Jon's representatives have indicated he will take time away from public engagements to mourn.
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the importance of community support in times of loss. Authorities encourage anyone with information to contact the Milton Police Department.
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